Santa Maria, CA (January 30, 2026) – A wrong-way crash on Highway 101 near Highway 166 left several people with injuries Wednesday evening, according to the California Highway Patrol. The incident triggered a swift emergency response and temporarily shut down both lanes of the highway.
CHP officers and Santa Maria emergency crews responded to the collision at around 6 p.m. on January 28. Investigators stated that a gray Honda was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of Highway 101 when it struck another vehicle head-on. The reason for the wrong-way travel remains unclear.
Medical teams arrived at the scene and rendered aid to those involved. Reports confirmed multiple injuries described as minor, though the exact number of people hurt was not disclosed. At least one ambulance was seen leaving the scene to transport injured individuals to nearby hospitals for further treatment.
Authorities suspect that alcohol impairment may have played a role in the crash. The driver of the wrong-way vehicle remained at the scene and was evaluated by law enforcement.
Both lanes of Highway 101 were shut down during the investigation and vehicle recovery, causing significant traffic delays. The roadway was cleared and reopened by approximately 7:15 p.m.
Our thoughts are with all those affected by Wednesday’s serious collision.
